Lead image for Students' outcry over rent increase.
A row has erupted over rent hikes around the University of Eldoret, with students questioning the move arguing that they pay more for houses that remain poorly maintained.
Many students interviewed questioned why they should dig deeper into their already strained pockets for accommodation they say has not improved.
Students living in rental houses surrounding the university are protesting reported rent increases that have seen single rooms rise from Sh3,000 to Sh4,000, while bedsitters have reportedly jumped from Sh4,000 to Sh5,000.
"Many students are already grappling with rising food, transport, academic and other living expenses. The additional Sh1,000 a month is a big burden to us," said Linda Achieng', a second year student.
The students argue that the increases would be easier to understand if they came alongside significant improvements in the quality of accommodation.
"Instead, some houses continue to struggle with basic maintenance problems with many of them leaking not to mention insecurity incidences around campus," said Simon Korir, another student.
According to the students, many houses have leaking roofs, broken doors, unreliable water, poor sanitation and neglected repairs.